Public hearings over air permit for Titan continue

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– The North Carolina Division of Air Quality took the stage at Kenan Auditorium Thursday night to hear from the public about the draft air permit they issued to Titan.

“What we need to do is a full review of all ramifications, water, air everything before any permit is issued,” said Rep. Carolyn Justice (R-16th District). “I am opposed to the issuance of the draft air permit.”

Much of the crowd was anti-Titan and shared the opinion of Representative Justice.

“We believe that this permit, the draft permit is premature,” said Tracy Skrabal. “The Division of Air Quality should not issue any permit until the full effect of Titan’s proposal can be evaluated including air, water, public health and the economy.”

Those who are Titan supporters say that the cement company will keep the community’s best interest at the forefront.

“It is a very big deal for the town job wise but I also believe that they are going to be responsible keepers of our environment,” said Susan Habas.

The Division of Air Quality will keep the public comment period open until the end of October. After that, all thoughts will be reviewed and a report will be written with recommendation for the director of air quality. The director will then issue the permit as it has gone into the hearings, alter it, or deny the permit all together.

“Quite frequently when we have public hearings we will make modifications to permits, we don’t very often deny permits,” said Tom Mather, a spokesman from the Division of Air Quality.